For Sid Archar, who recently started as a postdoctoral researcher in the UChicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering Ferguson Lab, playing with shelter dogs at “Postdoc Pup Playdate” was more than a fun break—it was a warm welcome.
“Coming into a new lab environment can be a bit overwhelming, and there’s definitely a learning curve,” Archer said. “Events like this really help. They make this place start feeling like home, especially when you can just de-stress by petting some dogs.”
Every year since 2009, National Postdoc Appreciation Week (NPAW) has been a time to honor the vital contributions of postdoctoral researchers—the scientists who bridge the gap between PhD students and faculty in university laboratories. The third week of each September, institutions nationwide take the opportunity to recognize the role these researchers play in advancing science and innovation. PME's Office of Postdoctoral Affairs celebrated NPAW 2024 last week with a series of engaging and meaningful events, designed to recognize and celebrate PME postdocs.
“Postdoctoral scholars are essential in driving innovative research programs forward—not only through their own groundbreaking work but also by mentoring graduate and undergraduate students,” PME Dean Nadya Mason said. “Their experienced perspectives enrich our departments and elevate our collective efforts.”
For Zach Geng, a new postdoc at PME and a dog owner himself, the kickoff event, which brought in dogs from Border Tails Rescue, was a welcome relief. “I do have a dog, and I don’t know what I’d do without him,” Geneg shared. “The puppies here today made everything feel so much better—a huge boost of dopamine.”
Last week’s events include professional development and career panels, time-management workshop, a paint night and coffee and breakfast socials. Succulent and coffee giveaways and professional headshot sessions were coordinated with UChicagoGRAD. Two professional development workshops were hosted in partnership with universities from across the country.
“At PME, we are dedicated to preparing these talented individuals to become leaders in interdisciplinary science and engineering,” Mason said. “Events like Postdoc Appreciation Week are important for celebrating their numerous contributions, and recognizing them as integral and invaluable members of our PME community.”
While puppies and potted plant distribution veer toward fun, the purpose is serious.
Vipul Sharma, Director for PME Postdoctoral Affairs and organizer of the postdoc appreciation events, said the goal is “to make postdocs feel part of a community, and to make them feel supported, both personally and professionally.”
The week, filled with opportunities for relaxation, professional development, and community building, highlighted PME's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for postdocs.
“Postdoctoral researchers are the backbone of how research goes in institutes. They’re in a transition phase of their careers, so it’s important that they feel recognized and valued—not just at PME, but at UChicago as a whole,” Sharma said. “As PME continues to grow its postdoc community, events like NPAW serve as essential platforms to ensure that postdocs feel appreciated and equipped for the next stages of their careers. The 2024 celebration marked another step forward in PME’s ongoing mission to support the future leaders of research and innovation.”